Anna Maria Island Sun January 31, 2024 by Anna Maria Island Sun

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 24 No. 23

January 31, 2024

Morgan, McMullen join Anna Maria Commission The Anna Maria City Commission is operating at full capacity again. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Vintage hotel yields to new

LESLIE LAKE| SUN

The historic Magnolia Inn makes way for a new hotel/restaurant/retail complex. Page 26.

Tourist tax subsidizes Gulf Islands Ferry service Tourist development tax revenues are being used to subsidize Manatee County’s new ferry service. BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – After launching on Jan. 14, Manatee County’s Gulf Islands Ferry service is now operating three days per week. The county contracts with Clearwaterbased Gulf Coast Water Taxi LLC to operate the ferry service between downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. According to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione, the ferry service is funded by three sources: passenger fares, the county’s tourist development tax and beach concession revenues.

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“Ad valorem taxes (property taxes) are not being used for this project and the residents aren’t paying for it. We’re using the tourist tax dollars that come from visitors,” Falcione recently told The Sun. “And we’re using a little money from the beach concession fund for the docking enhancements.” Manatee County levies a 5% tourist development tax on owners of accommodations rented for six months or less including hotels, motels, vacation rentals and other lodging. The tax generates more than $25 million a year for the county. According to state law, tourist development tax revenues can only be spent on projects and activities that enhance and promote tourism and cannot be used for general infrastructure improvements, daily governmental operations or law enforcement.

SEE FERRY, PAGE 11

SEE COMMISSION, PAGE 26

Captains for Clean Water invites community to join cause Chris Wittman says individuals who band together can make a difference against corporate interests. BY LESLIE LAKE SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA - In an uphill battle against corporate interests to maintain healthy water quality, Capt. Chris Wittman said mobilized individuals can make a big difference. Wittman, co-founder of Captains for Clean Water, spoke at The Center of Anna Maria Island on Jan. 23. Noting many attendees at his talk were “some heavy-hitter fishermen,” he told his story of the quest to fight for clean water in Florida. “I grew up in Sanibel and became a fishing guide,” Wittman said. “I

SEVERAL local nonprofits share in the AMI Chamber's Trolley Grant Awards. 8

Anna Maria Island, Florida

ANNA MARIA – Kathleen Morgan and Gary McMullen are the newest members of the city commission. On Jan. 25, commissioners Mark Short, Jon Crane and Charlie Salem appointed Morgan and McMullen to fill the city commission seats previously vacated Morgan by Robert Kingan and Deanie Sebring. When making the appointments, the three sitting commissioners individually ranked the two candidates according to their personal preferences. Short, Crane and Salem each listed Morgan as their top choice and McMullen as their second choice, McMullen with Crane participating by phone.

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saw water quality impacts to other fishermen and to my way of life.” Despite witnessing the impacts that red tide and algae blooms had on the fishing industry and tourism, Wittman said it was years before he took action. “I was 16 years into my guide business and had not played a role and was not active in trying to fix it. I didn’t see how as an individual l could make an impact on these huge issues, like the Lake Okeechobee runoff,” he said. “I cared a lot; I was directly impacted. But without having a pathway to make an impact I simply adapted.” He adapted by picking up clients in other areas and avoiding the problem sites until the widespread red tide of 2016 became his wake-up call.

SEE CAPTAINS, PAGE 27

LAST CALL: CAST YOUR BALLOT

in the Readers' Choice awards. 17-18

MOM'S CAFÉ offers AMI mothers a place

to connect, learn and recharge. 9

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2 THE SUN

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JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

Tourism numbers slip in November According to the latest data from Research Data Services, November tourism was down in Manatee County. BY JASON SCHAFFER SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Research Data Services’ Ann Wittine presented her state of tourism update to the county Tourist Development Council (TDC) on Jan. 22, comparing tourism in November 2023 to the same month in 2022. Total visitors were down by 6.4%, room nights were down by 7.5% and economic impact was down by 6.9%, said Wittine, the county’s tourism consultant, citing the latest available statistics. The average daily room rate was down 2.3%, at $186.63 per day in November 2023 compared to $191.11

in November 2022. “This was the Hurricane Ian effect,” Wittine said. “Last year, we were hosting recovery workers, insurance adjusters, displaced residents and people who would have vacationed in other places but couldn’t because of other places being more impacted by the storm.” Wittine was quick to point out that although last November’s numbers were down, the number of visitors (80,700) was up 45.1% from pre-COVID 2019 during the same period. She said that although many of the numbers were down from the previous year, such as economic impact falling from slightly over $114 million in November 2022 to $106.3 million in November 2023, the goal of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is not necessarily to get more people

to visit but rather see that those who do visit make a greater impact on the local economy. She said this strategy is working, as the pre-COVID 2019 economic impact for the same period was only $67.4 million, which makes November 2023 up 76.3%, a number the CVB is excited about. Research Data Services also keeps track of where visitors are coming from when they visit the area. The largest increase in any

visitor origin is Canada, which is up 51.8% over the same period in 2022. Travel from Europe rose by 1.3%. The largest domestic visitor origin outside of Florida was the Midwest, which saw 18,240 visitors in November 2023, down 1.3% from November 2022. Wittine credits the marketing efforts of the CVB in Florida for making visitors from within the state the largest of all measured regions. “All of the marketing we did post-COVID to our immediate surrounding Florida markets has continued to have a ripple effect,” Wittine said. “This shows that if we can get a visitor from Florida here, they come back again. With that marketing, we brought a lot of people in that hadn’t yet discovered what they have in their own backyard.”

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ISLAND NEWS

After running unopposed in the November elections, returning incumbent Anna Maria Commissioners Charlie Salem and Jon Crane were sworn into their new two-year terms JOE HENDRICKS | SUN during the commisCharlie Salem was sworn into his sion’s organizational new two-year term in office. meeting on Jan. 25. City Clerk LeAnne Addy administered the oath of office to Salem and then to Crane, who participated by phone. Salem then nominated current Commission Chair Mark Short to serve another year JOE HENDRICKS | SUN in that position. The Mark Short will serve as commission three-member comchair for another year. mission unanimously supported that nomination. Short then nominated Salem to serve as vice chair and the three-member commission unanimously supported that nomination. A short time later, Kathleen Morgan and Gary McMullen were appointed to the commission, returning the commission to its five-member capacity.

Rodencal, Ian appointed to planning board Anna Maria residents Jeff Rodencal and Janis Ian (not pictured) have been appointed to the city’s Planning and Zoning Board. Rodencal previously served on the board for approximately three years. Ian is new to the board that will meet next on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 9 a.m. to Rodencal discuss a request to vacate an easement at 117 Peppertree Lane.

Charter Review Committee members appointed The Anna Maria City Commission approved Mayor Dan Murphy’s recommended five-member Charter Review Committee, consisting of Christopher Arendt, Stevie Coppin, Scott Isherwood, Pat Olesen and Chuck Wolfe. “I like all of them,” Commissioner Jon Crane said when the committee was approved on Jan. 25. Meeting for the first time on Friday, Feb. 2 at 2 p.m., the committee will spend the next couple of months reviewing the city charter and potentially recommending changes to the document that establishes the city’s building height limits and sets forth how the city is structured and governed. Any proposed charter amendments must be put before the city’s registered voters for approval or denial.

JANUARY 31, 2024

County commissioners reject library board applicants

IN BRIEF Salem, Crane sworn in

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Manatee County commissioners voted 6-1 to delay appointments to the Library Advisory Board despite having multiple applicants for seven seats. BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Despite having candidates to fill seven vacancies on the nineseat county Library Advisory Board, county commissioners declined to make any appointments or reappoint two candidates to the board. Library Services Manager Tammy Parrott presented the applications to the county board of commissioners during a Jan. 23 meeting. While she said it was nice that there were multiple applicants for some of the vacant seats, including the one designated for an Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key resident, some of the seats had only one applicant. Parrott asked commissioners if they were ready to make an appointment to those seats or if they would like to open it back up to see if any more applicants put their hats in the ring for consideration. Of the seven open seats, one is for a city of Bradenton resident, one for a city of Palmetto resident, one representing the Island communities, one for a Lakewood Ranch/Myakka resident, one for a librarian with a Master of Library Science degree, one for a parent/guardian of a child currently enrolled in Manatee County schools and one for a parent/guardian of a child that is homeschooled in Manatee County. Only the seats representing the Island communities, Lakewood Ranch/Myakka and the librarian received multiple applications. The applicants for the city of Bradenton and Palmetto seats were seeking reappointment to the board.

I don’t see many individuals on this list who are like-minded with this board,” Kevin Van Ostenbridge County Commissioner Putting their names up for consideration for the Island communities’ seat were Ashley Dawson, Nancy Deal, Karen Moss and Corey Wright. Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge said he was “not satisfied with any of the applicants on the list” and recommended reopening the application process. “This is the most robust applicant pool I’ve seen since I started working at the county,” Parrott said. “I was very pleased with the response.” She noted that the current Library Advisory Board expires at the end of January and she was planning for the new appointees to be in place and begin work in February. She said she was happy with the applications received. “I don’t see many individuals on this list who are like-minded with this board,” Van Ostenbridge said. Parrott said three seats are expiring at the end of the month. Currently, there are five people on the board, which is planned to be expanded to nine in 2024. She added that with three seats expiring on the current board, the advisory board would be left with only two members in February with commissioners not making any appointments. Rather than amending his motion to table the entire discussion until new applicants could be found for all of the seats, Van Ostenbridge said, “I’m not willing to amend my motion. Some may consider it hostile if they like but I would rather the board not meet at all than have a board that’s going to meet and make decisions that are not in line with this

county commission.” In a Jan. 23 email, President of Friends of the Lakewood Ranch Library Sue Ann Miller said that she felt Van Ostenbridge’s comments could possibly be seen as discrimination since no board member asked him to define “like-minded.” “I applied for the AMI position on the county’s Library Advisory Board,” Holmes Beach resident Nancy Deal said. “I would not be upset if someone more qualified than I was considered but none of the AMI applicants were considered.” “I have no idea what I could have written on my application form that indicated any kind of ‘minded,’ let alone ‘not like-minded’ with BOCC,” Deal said, questioning if the decision made by the board was a form of bias against Island residents. Commissioner George Kruse, who gave the lone dissenting vote on Van Ostenbridge’s motion to table the discussion, said that he felt the application process was well-advertised and the applications were well-received with one of the applicants for reinstatement on the board serving since 2017. “These are people who clearly care,” Kruse said. He also noted that the advisory board is tied to a millage rate being collected by the county and he worries that the county cannot collect millage due to failure of the board to meet. He advised that the commissioners should have the county attorney look at the ordinance governing the board before making a decision. County commissioners voted 6-1 to table the discussion.

JANUARY 31, 2024

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Commissioners reach out for community support BY KRISTIN SWAIN

SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City commissioners are fighting to maintain home rule and they’re seeking community support to make that happen. During a Jan. 23 meeting, Commissioner Terry Schaefer said that he hopes members of the community will reach out to their state legislators by writing letters expressing their opinions on the proposed parking garage at Manatee Beach, approved by the Legislature in 2023. He also requested public input on the ongoing Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) state study looking at the consolidation of the three Anna Maria Island cities and on HB 1537/SB 280, which would assign control of vacation rentals to the state instead of allowing local municipalities to regulate that industry in their locations. Schaefer added that while city leaders are sending letters to

CITY OF HOLMES BEACH | SUBMITTED

Mayor Judy Titsworth visits with Congressman Vern Buchanan on Jan. 23. Tallahassee, he said the city’s lobbyist advised him to not send every bit of correspondence to Sen. Jim Boyd and Rep. Will Robinson Jr. While those two men represent Manatee County at the state level, Schaefer said the lobbyist is trying to repair the relationship between the city and the two state legislators and too much correspondence could “put salt in the wound.”

“They know where we stand and we know where they stand,” Schaefer said. During comments, Commissioner Greg Kerchner said he’s concerned that the OPPAGA study will state that there is a cost savings in consolidating the three Island cities and that it will come down to a public relations move by the state to try and convince residents that consolidation or elimination of the three cities is good for them. He encouraged his fellow city leaders to direct staff to create a financial analysis to get ahead of what he feels is an inevitable discussion between the city and state. Mayor Judy Titsworth said she met earlier that day with Congressman Vern Buchanan to discuss issues facing the city, potential appropriations requests and what city leaders and staff are doing to improve the area for residents and visitors. “He’s a great friend to the city and our community,” Titsworth said of Buchanan.

THE SUN

Road work to continue in Holmes Beach HOLMES BEACH – City Engineer Sage Kamiya gave commissioners an update on the city’s capital improvement projects last week, and while infrastructure like sidewalks, stormwater infiltration systems and roadways will continue to receive improvements over the coming year, there is a potential for traffic delays due to construction. Kamiya said that the design process is underway for roadway improvements on Gulf Drive from Palm Drive to Holmes Boulevard that include stormwater infiltration system improvements. While construction is not yet scheduled, he anticipates that the project will be completed by March 2026. The city also will be undergoing stormwater improvements along 61st Street, 62nd Street and Marina Drive with construction planned to begin in September. Stormwater improvements along 77th, 78th and 79th streets and along Avenue B and Avenue C near 28th Street at Gulf Drive are expected to be completed by September. He said that improvements along Gulf Drive from 69th to 76th streets are substantially complete. Sidewalk repairs are planned for 2024 at various spots along Gulf Drive, Avenue E, Second Avenue, Flotilla Drive, 46th Street, 52nd Street, 55th Street, 64th Street, 66th Street, 67th Street and 77th Street. Street paving repairs are planned and continuing this year at the city-owned 63rd Street boat ramp and along Sixth Avenue, 34th Street, 83rd Street, 75th Street, 76th Street, 77th Street, 28th Street, 82nd Street, 60th Street, Second Avenue and 59th Street.

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OPINION

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The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Owner/CEO Mike Field Editor Cindy Lane General Manager Bob Alexander Reporters/Photographers Joe Hendricks Leslie Lake Jason Schaffer Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Rusty Chinnis Contributors Joe Becht Steve Borggren Capt. Rick Grassett Monica Simpson Layout Ricardo Fonseca Digital Editor Kristin Swain Advertising Director Shona Otto Advertising Assistant Pamela Lee Classifieds Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Distribution Bob Alexander Connor Field Tony McNulty Brian Smith Accounting Leslie Ketchum Co-founding publishers Mike Field Maggie McGinley Field Family-owned since 2000

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Climate Champions awards

I am writing to express my appreciation for this year’s Climate Champions Award nominees. On Feb. 15, The Climate Adaptation Center (CAC) will honor five amazing individuals who have made contributions to putting the CAC’s best science information into use. They are on the front line of Climate Adaptation! As such, we are celebrating their contributions not only to honor them, but also to inspire our community. The Second Annual Climate Champions Awards luncheon will be held at Michael's on East ballroom on Thursday, Feb. 15 with check-in at 11 a.m. and program from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. This joyous program honors those who are helping our community speed climate adaptation actions to help lower the risk from climate-induced disruptions like sea level rise, flooding and more frequent and intense hurricanes, just to name a few. While the impacts of a warming climate can be difficult, we must celebrate and inspire. I encourage the community to come and honor our 2024 Climate Champions Nominees for the prestigious Beacon Award. Nominees include Jennifer Rominiecki - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens; Dr. David Tomasko - Sarasota Bay Estuary Program; Jessica Meszaros and Steve Newborn - WUSF Public

Media; and Marshall Gobuty Pearl Homes, Cortez. We are so proud of them! For more information and tickets visit theclimateadaptationcenter.org.

Bob Bunting Sarasota

Commissioners stall library board appointments On Jan. 23, I listened to the Manatee County Commission meeting. It has been about a year of discussion to expand the current "volunteer” Library Citizen's Advisory Board. After the ordinance passed, people within the community came out, adhering to the specific demographic requirements. Sure, some positions only had one candidate, but others had multiple. As Tammy Parrott stated, she was happy with the candidates. The motion to table was made by Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, stating, “I’m not satisfied with the applicants on the list… the individuals on the list are not like-minded to this board.” Not one of you asked him to define what like-minded means to him. So, I ask, what is the definition? Without an answer, I can only conclude Commissioner Van Ostenbridge only wants Republican-registered applicants to apply for advisory board positions. If this is true, we live in a democracy and this attitude is discrimination.

Your continuing disregard and disrespect for the professionals who lead this county, not only in the Library Department, but other departments, shows a lack of good conduct on your part as an elected leader, and inappropriate means for change. Thank you to Commissioner Kruse, the only one of you who had the resolve to question and dissent from the motion set forth. Now you have tabled the appointments and because of this decision, the advisory board does not have a quorum and can’t meet! There was no reason why the two returning members should have been restricted from approval and no reason why the positions with multiple applicants could not have moved forward. How did you vet the process? Your residents came out to volunteer, several are college educated (with masters), extensive employment backgrounds and volunteer experience. What a letdown for them. I respect the work of the County Library Department leaders and staff, and they have responded positively to all your requests for library changes and improvement. What a letdown for the staff! As a resident of Manatee County, I am very disappointed with the rhetoric I heard and the silence from this Board of Commissioners. Remember, in the United States we live in a democracy.

Julie Perry

Friends of the Island Library Holmes Beach

JANUARY 31, 2024

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ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information. Jan. 31, 9 a.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting Feb. 2, 2 p.m. – Charter Review Commission meeting Feb. 19, all day – City offices closed for Presidents’ Day

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information. Feb. 1, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Feb. 7, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Feb. 15, noon – City Commission meeting Feb. 19, all day – City offices closed for Presidents’ Day

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl.org or contact city hall for more information. Feb. 7, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification committee meeting Feb. 7, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting Feb. 13, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting with work session to follow Feb. 14, 9 a.m. – Clean Water Ad-Hoc meeting Feb. 16, 11:30 a.m. – Police Officers’ Pension Board meeting Feb. 19, all day – City offices closed for Presidents’ Day

THE SUN

EVENTS WEDNESDAY, JAN. 31

Nature Art: Painting with the Elements, Robinson Preserve, meet at north entrance walk to observation tower, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Holy Yoga, Roser Church outdoor stage, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m. Home School Science Club, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 99th St. N.W., 1 p.m. One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 2-4 p.m.

THURSDAY, FEB. 1

AMI Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Blueberries Café and Wine, 5337 Gulf Drive #300, Holmes Beach, 8 a.m., $15 for members or $25 for potential members RoserRobics, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St., Bradenton Beach, 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEB. 2

Oyster shell drilling for vertical oyster gardens, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

Paper Crafting with MaryKate Scott: Valentines, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3

Mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon Ask a Master Gardner, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Paper Crafting with MaryKate Scott: Valentines, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

MONDAY, FEB. 5

Gentle yoga, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

TUESDAY, FEB. 6

Farmer’s Market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. RoserRobics, Roser Church fellowship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Family story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Mah-jongg for experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 7

Holy Yoga, Roser Church outdoor stage, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11:30 a.m. One-on-one tech help, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2-4 p.m.

8 THE SUN

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JANUARY 31, 2024

Chamber awards trolley grants

Area nonprofits were awarded cash grants at the AMI Chamber of Commerce’s Trolley Grant Awards.

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce Trolley Grant recipients

BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

CORTEZ – More than a hundred people packed the Seafood Shack’s Neptune Room on Jan. 25 for the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s latest Business Card Exchange, which featured the annual Trolley Grant Awards. This year’s awards went to 16 nonprofit organizations that requested money for specific projects to better the community through their efforts. To keep the familiar trolleys that carry passengers up and down the Island free of charge, the AMI Chamber sells advertising space on the inside and outside of the trolleys. After administrative costs and expenses are covered each year, excess revenue is dispersed in the form of grants to nonprofit organizations on the Island and in

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

Representatives from 16 area nonprofit organizations received Trolley Grant Award funding from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 25 at the Seafood Shack. Cortez. The annual award winners are selected by a committee and awarded annually on the fourth Thursday of January based on submissions that are due in midDecember. The program was founded by Ed Hunzeker, former Manatee County

administrator, along with the late David Teitelbaum, of Anna Maria Island Resorts. This year’s ceremony gave back more than $25,000, bringing the total grants given to nonprofits on the Island and Cortez since the inception of this program to more

• Anna Maria Elementary School PTO • Anna Maria Island Art League • Anna Maria Island Garden Club • Anna Maria Island Privateers • Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring • Annie Silver Community Center • Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island • Cortez Village Historical Society • Friends of the Florida Maritime Museum • Friends of the Island Branch Library • Island Players • Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island • Roser Memorial Community Church • Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island • The Center of Anna Maria Island • Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Inc. than $471,000. AMI Chamber officials say they are honored to manage this program with Manatee County that gives back to the community.

JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

Mom’s Café: A place to gather and learn Mom’s Café meetings take place twice a month at Roser Church in Anna Maria. BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The newly formed Mom’s Café group provides moms of all ages a place to gather and share their motherhood experiences. The inaugural Mom’s Café gathering took place on Jan. 24 in the Fellowship Hall at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave. Led by Liz Rodgers, the Mom’s Café group now plans to meet two Wednesdays a month from 9:30-11 a.m. The next meeting is scheduled on Feb. 14 and will feature a guest speaker sharing hints and advice on healthy habits for moms. Additional meetings are scheduled on Feb. 28, March 13 and 27, April 10 and 24 and May 8 and 22. “The first meeting is about getting to know each other, find out what’s meaningful for them and make sure we tailor this to what the moms’ needs are,” Rodgers said as the attending moms arrived, mingled and enjoyed free coffee and refreshments. “It’s for all moms,” Rodgers said, noting the mix of younger and older moms is an important component of Mom’s Café.

Before the first meeting started, Jen Serra and Laura Seubert shared their thoughts on motherhood and the Mom’s Café meetings. Serra’s kids are 13, 11 and 8 years old. Seubert’s kids are 17, 14 and 9. When asked about the challenges currently faced by parents and youngsters on Anna Maria Island, Seubert said, “Social media is huge.” “Yes, social media,” Serra agreed. Seubert said scheduling is another big challenge. “Our kids are so involved and so active. When I got home from school, I went out and played until the streetlights came on. Nowadays, our kids are doing community service, athletics and more. Getting everybody in one place and having a sit-down meal is challenging,” she said. Serra said there’s a viable network of Island families but connecting as a community can be challenging. “On the Island, there’s not a lot of focus on moms with kids in school and younger. That demographic exists but isn’t always noticed with all the snowbirds and visitors,” she said. When asked about the challenges posed by living in neighborhoods dominated primarily by vacation rental homes, Seubert said, “While this is a really busy Island

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The first Mom’s Café meeting on Jan. 24 drew several mothers and kids. for visitors, it’s a rural community for residents with very few families that can interact. For our kids to do sports, other than at The Center, they go off the Island. For Boy Scouts, they go off-Island. It’s like being in the boonies; you have to drive to where you want to go.” Rodgers, who lives just off-Island, said, “In my neighborhood, there’s two moms that are new to the area. They have little kids and feel isolated and they don’t get out. This is a venue to help moms connect with each other and share their journey, their experiences and what they’ve learned about mothering.” “I go to a moms’ workout

group at CrossFit but it’s not really advertised. It’s all word of mouth,” Serra said. “There’s a bunch of families that go play kickball together, but if nobody knows you and you’re not on the email list you’re not going to get the invite. It’s as close to a pickup game as we can get when you can’t just go next door.” Serra said she went through a period where she invited 10-15 kids over every Wednesday night to swim and share a potluck dinner. She also hosts a craft night for her friends every three months. “Just to get connected,” she said. As for what attracted her to Mom’s Café, Seubert said, “Having a place where moms

can come together.” “To carve out some mom time and to connect the younger moms and the older mentor moms,” Serra said. Sharing something she learned as a mom and wants to impart to others, Seubert said, “Our kids go to Saint Stephen’s. My oldest is a senior in high school and he’s applying to college. We’ve had to go back in our memories and come up with the things he’s done to put on his resume. So, I started Google documents on my phone for my 14-year-old and my 9-year-old. Every time they get an award or an honor or volunteer for something I add it to the list. I tell other moms to start doing that now.” Chinda Sanger and her husband, Tom, recently joined Roser Church. They have a 5-year-old in kindergarten and an 8-year-old in third grade, both of whom attend Anna Maria Elementary. They also have a 4-year-old who attends the School for Constructive Play in Holmes Beach. “Jen is the president of PTO at Anna Maria Elementary. I know most of the women from the school and I’m here to meet other moms,” Sanger said. Accompanied by her 12-week-old son Axl – named after Gun’s N’ Roses singer Axl Rose – Christine Mullen was the newest mom in attendance. “I hope to make connections with moms who are going through similar trials and to learn from the more seasoned moms and get advice from them. I’m scared every day. I just want to raise a good person who has a servant’s heart and I want him to be a good guy,” Mullen said. Mom’s Café meetings are free, with free childcare provided. The meetings are open to all moms regardless of age or religious affiliation. For meeting dates and more information call 941-778-0414 or visit www.roserchurch.com/ moms-cafe/#more-8062.

10 THE SUN

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Manatee County makes strides in improving water quality BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

Manatee County - Local water quality is improving through the efforts of Manatee County environmental staff, according to the county’s Natural Resources Director Charlie Hunsicker. “Our people in water quality and environmental protection are working hard every day,” Hunsicker told commissioners on Jan. 23. “And with our utility partners and public works partners, we are working to protect the water quality in Manatee County.” Hunsicker said water is monitored at more than 80 sites around the county, with more than 11,000 samples being tested annually. “Manatee County is working hard to always observe where we are in our water-quality picture,” he said. Hunsicker presented numerous charts showing county efforts to maintain water quality that include: • Wastewater treatment upgrades ($600 million invested over the next five years); • Increased street sweeping; • 5,000 seagrass plugs planted; • 25,000 trees planted in 2023; • 15,000 acres of habitat restored; and • 1,500 vertical oyster gardens installed. “More than 18 million gallons of water were saved last year alone in water irrigation efficiencies (through the IFAS

University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences),” he said. Hunsicker said 114,262 acres of seagrass off the coast of Manatee County in Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are dependent on water quality. “We also have storm sampling for bacteria,” Hunsicker said. “Last year and the years before we were faced with possible closures of our recreational beaches along the Gulf because of bacteriological readings that were taken around Palma Sola Bay and assumptions made by the health department that contamination extended throughout the entire county. We were able to respond to them and keep our beaches open and to prove and demonstrate with our own sampling efforts that bacteria were not affecting the Gulf beaches of Anna Maria Island.” “This is really important, and it is of major concern to our residents,” Manatee County District 5 Commissioner Ray Turner said. Commissioners praised the Natural Resources staff for being stewards of voter-supported efforts to purchase more preservation land through the County’s Environmental Lands Management and Acquisition Committee (ELMAC). “I hope the board hears that the investments the county is making into natural resources is bearing fruit,” District 3 Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge said.

JANUARY 31, 2024

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JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

FERRY: Tourist tax subsidizes Gulf Islands Ferry service FROM PAGE 1 The county’s beach concession fund is generated by the percentage of revenue the county receives from the concessionaires who lease concession space at the county-owned beaches in Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach.

FERRY COSTS

In 2022, Manatee County commissioners approved the purchase of two 50-foot, 49-passenger catamaran pontoon ferries at a cost not to exceed $950,000. In 2023, the county and Gulf Coast Water Taxi LLC entered into a five-year operating agreement in which the ferry operator keeps the passenger fares and also receives an additional monthly subsidy from the county to help offset expenses and operational costs. The operating agreement lists a likely one-year scenario in which a 55% annual ridership rate generates $364,483 in passenger fares and requires a $298,213 annual county subsidy. The operator must provide monthly reports that detail revenues, expenses and ridership. Twice a year, Falcione and his staff will reconcile the reports and potentially increase or decrease the monthly subsidy for the subsequent six-month period. The subsidy adjustments do not require county commission approval. On Jan. 25, Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Senior Fiscal Services Manager Jayne Roberts told The Sun the county has already reimbursed the ferry operator $20,703 for initial operating expenditures and will now pay the operator a $27,529 monthly subsidy to be reviewed and reconciled for the first time on Sept 30. At the current rate, the county’s

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The Riverwalk Day Dock in downtown Bradenton serves as the home base for the Gulf Islands Ferry service. total first-year subsidy would be $330,348. “We told the board the projected operational shortfall would probably be in the range of $300,000 to $400,000,” Falcione said. “We’ll have a better handle on our revenues and expenses in six months, and more so after the first year. We’re going to work to make this a sustainable operation, but we understand there’s a chance an operation like this may always need to be subsidized. The county is also searching for federal transportation grants to help enhance or subsidize the service.” Falcione said one grant-funded enhancement might include the future addition of a larger, faster ferry that would make the Manatee River run between Bradenton and Anna Maria Island with the two pontoon ferries traveling between the Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach stops.

WORK IN PROGRESS

Weather permitting, the ferries currently operate Fridays, Saturdays

and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Falcione said additional service days have already been discussed for the peak tourist season in March and April. “We’re up and running and we’re going to work through the bugs, communicate with consumers and keep building the framework of the system,” Falcione said. “If you buy tickets and we have to delay or cancel because of weather you’ll get a text. Customer service will also try to call.” Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.gulfcoastwatertaxi.com. The website also provides the most current information regarding schedules, delays and cancellations. A round-trip fare for adults is $10 and a one-way trip is $6. A round-trip fare for seniors, active military members and youths ages 4 to 18 is $6, and a one-way trip is $4. Children ages 3 and younger ride for free. When launched on Jan. 14, the ferry service initially traveled only between the Anna Maria City Pier and the Riverwalk day dock in downtown

Bradenton. Based on initial observations and feedback, Falcione talked to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy about possibly installing a SlideMoor docking system at the City Pier. “We’ve installed SlideMoors at the day dock in Bradenton and it really helps hold that ferry in position. We’re going to continue to enhance the terminals for the safety and stability of the ferries,” Falcione said. The first few weeks of service didn’t include stops at the Bradenton Beach Pier but an ADA-compliant wheelchair lift has now been installed on the floating dock and ferry service is expected to begin there the first weekend of February. “The great thing about the two stops on the Island is you have amenities within walking distance. You can get off at the City Pier in Anna Maria and enjoy the Mote Marine Science Education and Outreach Center and then walk a couple blocks along Pine Avenue to all the boutiques, restaurants and other attractions. And then a few blocks beyond that are our sugar-white sand beaches. “It’s the same in Bradenton Beach. You can enjoy the Anna Maria Oyster Bar, the shops and restaurants on Bridge Street and a few blocks beyond that are the beautiful beaches,” Falcione said, noting the free Island trolleys and private shuttle services provide Island-wide ground transportation elsewhere on the Island. Falcione said efforts are underway to accommodate Coquina Beach beachgoers with a ferry stop at the north or south Coquina boat ramp. He also envisions a future ferry stop near the Bradenton Area Convention Center near the new Marriott Bonvoy hotel in Palmetto and another in Longboat Key.

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12 THE SUN

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JANUARY 31, 2024

Island Players catch audiences with ‘The Mousetrap’ The Island Players made history by selling out every performance of their latest production, Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap.” BY JASON SCHAFFER

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA - The Island Players are smashing previous attendance records with their newest production, Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap.” Director Heiko Knipfelberg assembled a talented cast for the production, the longest-running play in history. The crew knew attendance would be good, but selling out every seat for every performance was a surprise. The Island Players staff found that requests for tickets could not be fulfilled shortly after the beginning of the second week of the run. According to the theater’s box office staff, the combination of a record number of season subscriptions and providing both online and in-person sales resulted in demand beyond availability. To celebrate its 75th season, the

JASON SCHAFFER | SUN

A sold-out crowd fills the Island Players Theater on Jan. 12 to see “The Mousetrap.” The entire run of the play was a sellout, a first for the theater group. Island Players also host receptions on different nights of each show as a small token of thanks to the many season ticket and single ticket holders who sustain and support the theater. The receptions also provide audience members a meet and greet with some of the many Island Players volunteers who staff these receptions. The next play will be “Communicating Doors,” a comedy by Alan Ayckbourn, directed by Preston Boyd and co-produced by Sato Real Estate.

Run dates are March 7-24. The curtain rises Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at www.theislandplayers. org. Box office sales will begin on Monday, Feb. 26. Box office hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday and opens for Sunday matinees at 1 p.m. for “will call” tickets only. The box office can be reached at 941-778-5755.

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JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

Form 6 lawsuit gains more plaintiffs Eighteen city commissions and town councils in Florida have joined as plaintiffs in a lawsuit that will soon be filed by the Fort Lauderdale-based Weiss Serota law firm challenging the constitutionality of the State of Florida’s Form 6 financial disclosure requirements. The requirements have long applied to elected state and county officials and now apply to elected city officials. Anna Maria Island’s three

cities have declined to participate. According to Weiss Serota attorney Jamie Cole, the 18 cities and towns that have joined the lawsuit are Golden Beach, Indian Creek, Miami Springs, Lighthouse Point, the Town of Palm Beach, North Bay Village, Bal Harbor, Weston, Delray Beach, Safety Harbor, Cooper City, Coral Springs, Marco Island, St. Augustine, Key Biscayne, Wilton Manors, Margate and Destin.

Supervisor of Elections retiring Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Mike Bennett recently announced his pending retirement. In a press release issued by his office, Bennett said, “I have spent a fabulous 22 years in the service of the people of the state of Florida. These years have been the highlight of my life, and it is with some regret that I have decided to retire effective March 1. Life is an ever-changing tapestry, and I would like to spend the rest of

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my time with my family, friends and on my various hobbies and charities. I have every expectation that the Manatee County Elections office is in the tremendously capable hands of the very experienced staff I leave behind and look to the Governor’s office to appoint an exceptional person to finish my term of office. Thank you for allowing me the honor to serve you in public office. I look forward to the future.”

14 THE SUN

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JANUARY 31, 2024

42nUAdL Located ater front w e h t g n alo h f Star Fis o t n o r f in ll and AP Be Company between W e v A h t on 46 and 123rd St W 124th St W

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Kids 12 & under FREE

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• Food • Live Music • Community Displays • Kids Area • Nautical and Environmental Art • A Fishermen’s Fashion Show • Cortez Photo Contest presented by the Artists’ Guild Gallery of

Anna Maria Island (AGGAMI). For further information please contact Janet Razze with AGGAMI at (941) 779-5477. The online submission deadline is Feb 7.

PARKING: The Boy Scouts in partnership with FISH will offer on-site parking at the Preserve which is located one block east of the village, off Cortez Rd, for a $5 donation. Bus and golf cart transportation to the festival entrance at 123rd St Ct W will be provided. PARK AND RIDE: FREE MCAT Bus service from Coquina Beach and GT Bray Park on 59th St W. OFF SITE PARKING: Available at Cortez Rd. Baptist Church (located at between 99th and 100th St and Cortez Rd) with Free Shuttle to Festival provided by The Monkey Bus.

For information call 941-301-4000 www.fishCORTEZ.org

JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

An Artful Evening at the museum An Artful Evening helped attract new and old visitors alike to the historical museum. BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Local artists Barbara Truemper-Green, Judy Vazquez, Karen Beach and LuAnn Widergren enjoyed An Artful Evening at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum on Jan. 24. In addition to displaying and offering for sale some of their past work, three of the four artists created new works in real-time at the well-attended event. Inside the museum, Truemper-Green created a new pastel painting that depicted her memory of a tree-lined Anna Maria shoreline near Bean Point. After noting that she participated in a previous Artful Evening event two years ago, she said, “I love this.”

Working next to her, Vazquez created a new mosaic made by attaching pieces of blue, marine life-themed glass to a frame surrounding a small mirror. “This is the first time I’m using this glass,” she said. She also displayed a previously completed mosaic and some smaller inspiration stones. Participating in her first museum show, Vazquez said, “We have a wonderful group of people here. It’s a nice turnout.” As she made her rounds, the museum’s Executive Director Caryn Hodge said, “We’re happy all these people came out to see us bringing art and history together at the museum. We are showcasing four amazing local artists who all have different styles and different mediums. We love supporting our local artists who capture pieces of Anna Maria history and this brings more people to the museum.” Inside the museum, Karen Beach displayed several of

CARYN HODGE | SUBMITTED

An Artful Evening featured artists Judy Vazquez, LuAnn Widergren, Karen Beach and Barbara Truemper-Green. her locally-themed watercolor paintings. One painting illustrated the pass at DeSoto National Memorial as viewed from the path she and her husband walked constantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her other works included paintings of a cottage on Gulf Drive, a

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school of jumping mullet and an outdoor setting in Alaska. “I like this event very much and I was in it two years ago. It brings people into the museum and you can see people appreciating the museum while we show our work,” Beach said. While working outside on the

museum’s front porch, Widergren created a new oil painting of one of the Island’s palm trees – working in a manner and a medium similar to the late TV personality, Bob Ross. “It’s a very happy palm tree,” she joked when that comparison was made. One of her previous paintings depicted a grounded, abandoned boat in Cortez that she created during the two days spent outside at the boat’s location. Another painting depicted a beach scene in Holmes Beach. “I haven’t done this event before, but I’m at the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island with a couple other artists here and they invited me. I couldn’t pass that up,” Widergren said, noting she tries to make a living from the sale of her art. Attendees also enjoyed free charcuterie provided by Anna Maria Olive Oil Outpost and free wine provided by Time Saver Wine and Spirits.

16 THE SUN

OUTDOORS

JANUARY 31, 2024

Capture the moments

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

igital photography and videography continue to evolve as phones advance. Anglers have never had more access to capturing images and videos, right in their pocket. Whether you are capturing a picture or a video clip to remind you of your catch, to share with friends and family, or to post on social media, photography has never been easier. Anglers can enjoy this remarkable technology no matter their level of experience. The best part is that these devices are always close at hand, so you have opportunities that somehow always seemed to appear when you didn’t have an SFR camera at hand. Most smartphones employ AI technology and come with software or apps that let you enhance the image, crop the size and share the final product in many ways. You can

send the images to social media via email (straight from a phone), download them to your computer, edit and even print them out to frame and display. Even though snapping a picture has never been easier, there are a few basic rules that will help you capture that special image. Before ever leaving the dock, be sure you have a full charge on your phone and an extra battery bank with cables to recharge. Shooting video on an iPhone or Android device uses up a lot of power and you don’t want to run out of juice late in the day. Also, carry a cleaning cloth and make sure your lens stays clean. There is almost always a certain amount of chaos associated with catching a memorable fish, so get an idea in advance of where you’ll compose your image. Check the background through the viewfinder carefully for distracting and cluttered backgrounds. Make sure you don’t have any unwanted objects, like a rod appearing to stick out of someone’s head. Look to capture photographs that aren’t posed and remember that the sooner you get your picture the more vibrant the

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

An image from an iPhone takes a memorable shot when well-composed and exposed. Rallis Papas’ trout took a black Clouser in Waccasassa Bay. colors of a fish will be. First and foremost, fill the frame with the subject, eliminating anything that doesn’t add to the composition. Since you’re filming on the water, check that the horizon is straight. Most phones have the option of putting a grid on the field of view. Many photographs taken on the water are exposed in bright light. When possible, shoot with the sun at your back

and use fill flash when shooting with the sun in the background. Take several shots from different angles and get the angler excited and talking to you. One of the great advantages of digital is that you can take lots of pictures and edit them on the go to make sure you have the shot you want. Modern phones have built-in software to edit images but there are also apps including Lightroom and Photoshop that can be used. Since lighting on the water can be challenging, shoot and then review important shots. The one disadvantage of phone photography is the lack of telephoto capabilities. There are a lot of excellent digital cameras on the market today that give you that option if needed but today’s phones take excellent images of fish and fishing. Phones can take amazing images, but they have their limitations so if you’re interested in photography, I would suggest getting a camera that meets your needs. Taking the time to capture the moments of life pays in dividends that you can continue to relive by sharing them through your images.

JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

18 THE SUN

Business

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2024 Anna Maria Island Sun Readers’ Choice Business

People & Places

Auto Service

Pool Cleaner (include location)

Veterinarian (include location)

Bait & Tackle Shop

Pool Contractor

Veterinary Clinic

Bank (include location)

Real Estate Assoc. (include location)

View

Bike Rental

Real Estate Co.

Waiter/Waitress (include location)

Boating Store

Rental Co.

Yoga Studio

Car Wash

Resort

Carpet Cleaner

Retirement Community

CBD Store

Roofer

Clothing Store

Service Station

Convenience Store

Shopping Center

Dry Cleaner (include location)

Souvenir Shop

Electrician

Spa

Fine Dining

Women’s Apparel

Fitness

Floor Coverings

Florist

Gift Shop

Golf Cart Rental

Grocery Store

Hair Salon

Hardware Store (include location)

Heat & Air

Home Builder

Hotel/Motel

House Cleaner

Jewelry Store

Liquor Store

Manicurist (include location)

Marina

Men’s Apparel

Non-profit

Outdoor Sports Store

Painter (include location)

Pest Control

Pet Grooming

Pet Store

Pharmacist (include location)

Pharmacy

Plumber

ENTRY FORM (Must be completed for votes to be accepted) Name: Address: Phone: Day

| Night

I am at least 18 years of age or older (please check box)

Signature:

Food & Entertainment

People & Places 53

Architect

architectual Design

Art Gallery

Artist

Attorney

Band

Bar & Grill

Bartender (include location)

Beach

Boat Captain (include location)

Business Person

Caterer (include location)

Chef (include location)

Chiropractor

Dentist

Doctor

Eye Care

Financial Planner

Fishing Charter

Individual Entertainer

Interior Design

Massage Therapy

Personal Trainer (include location)

School

School Teacher (include location)

JANUARY 31, 2024

Asian Restaurant

Bagel Shop

Bakery

Barbecue

Boat Tour

Breakfast

Burger

Café

Candy Store

Deli

Festival

German Restaurant

Golf Course

Grouper Sandwich

Health Food Store

Ice Cream Place

Italian Restaurant

100 Key Lime Pie 101 Live Theater 102 Margarita 103 Mexican Restaurant 104 Most Romantic Restaurant 105 New Restaurant 106 Night Spot 107 Pier 108 Pizza 109 Restaurant (overall) 110 Seafood Restaurant 111 Specialty Cocktail 112 Specialty Gourmet 113 Sub/Sandwich 114 Takeout

RULES

Please read carefully. To vote in The Sun’s Readers’ Choice Awards you must use an official entry ballot published in The Sun. Copies and faxes will not be accepted. The ballots will appear in The Sun on Jan. 10, Jan. 17, Jan. 24. Only one ballot per person is allowed. At least 10 CATEGORIES must be filled in for the ballot to count and the entry form must be completed. Complete ballots may be dropped off at The Sun’s office, 3909 East Bay Drive Ste. 210, Holmes Beach. or the Anna Maria Chamber office at 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Or you can mail it in to The Sun’s Newspaper, PO Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216. All ballots must be in by Friday, February 2, 2024 at 4pm. Prizes in the drawing may not be transferred. Winners are drawn at random from all entries and you don’t have to buy anything to win. Accepting the prizes means winners agree to the use of their names and photographs in subsequent ads and news stories. You must be 18 years or older to participate. Ballots which show signs of tampering will not be counted. We reserve the right to reject any ballot(s) or disqualify any contestant(s).

JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

Target trout, reds in February

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT

Trout and redfish should be good shallow-water options this month. You may also find trout along with blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and flounder on deep grass flats. Look for sheepshead, flounder, reds and more around docks. Catch and release night snook fishing around lighted docks in the ICW may be a good option if it’s not too cold. Since snook are temperature sensitive, I won’t target them following strong fronts when water temperatures dip below 60 degrees. However, I have had some great night trips catching and releasing snook on flies in the ICW at night this time of year. Since larger baitfish aren’t that plentiful this time of year, snook will gorge themselves on glass minnows and shrimp. Small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow, DOA Shrimp (3” or the newer 2-3/4”), DOA Tiny TerrorEyz or CAL Jigs with shad tails and jerk worms will all work well. You may also find snook in rivers, creeks or canals this month. Fishing may be good in these areas on a blustery day when it isn’t fit to fish anywhere else. I like wider profile flies

CAPT. RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Keith McClintock, of Lake Forest, Illinois, with a big snook caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with Capt. Rick Grassett in previous Februarys. and lures in these areas due to the baitfish that may be found there. Fly anglers should score with wide profile baitfish patterns, such as Lefty’s Deceiver, fished on a sink tip fly line.

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Spin anglers should do well with CAL jigs and 4” swim baits and jerk worms, DOA Baitbusters or suspending plugs. Fish the deep spots, usually on outside bends, for the best action.

You might find reds in potholes or along the edges of bars and shallow flats when the tide is low. As the tide rises, they will feed higher on shallow flats, particularly on sunny afternoons. I like 1/16-ounce CAL jigs with shad tails or jerk worms for reds in shallow water. If it is too shallow or grassy to fish an exposed hook, a Mustad or Owner weedless hook will allow you to fish plastic baits in these areas. Fly anglers should score with lightly weighted flies, like Clousers or my Grassett Flats Minnow, with weed guards on floating lines with 10’-12’ leaders. You may also find big trout in skinny water in the same places you find reds. The same lures, flies and techniques that you use to target reds will work for big trout in those areas. Spotted seatrout regulations have changed in southwest Florida to a three-fishper-person bag limit and a six-fish boat limit. Trout must be from 15”-19” with one allowed per vessel over 19”. I release all over-slot trout since they are usually females and I feel that they are important to the health of our trout fishery. Full regulations and details for all species can be viewed at https://myfwc.com/.

20 THE SUN

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Island Branch Library to host Ukraine lecturer Katya Koshedub will present a lecture on Ukraine at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach on Thursday, Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. A firstKoshedub generation Ukrainian born in Montreal, Canada to Ukrainian parents who immigrated after WWII, her first language, learned at home, was Ukrainian, later learning English and French at school. She

became fluent in Ukrainian grammar, literature and geography and will speak about Ukrainian history and culture through artifacts, including a uniquely Ukrainian instrument called a bandura. She will talk about her experiences living Ukrainian in Canada, her two trips to Ukraine and how in Manatee/Sarasota counties she connected with new immigrants from Ukraine fleeing the recent invasion. She will also speak about the struggle to liberate Ukraine from Russia.

JANUARY 31, 2024

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

Old Town Tram surviving after funding loss Two electric golf carts provide free rides between Coquina Beach and 25th Street North. BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Despite losing Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) funding at the end of 2023, Old Town Tram owner Josh LaRose has made some creative changes to keep the free ride service running. Using two electric golf carts, the tram was launched as a pilot program to help address the lack of parking on Bridge Street and was partially funded by advertising sales. Annual funding for the service was cut from the city’s 2023-24 budget, and CRA board members agreed at a Sept. 6 meeting to a $10,000 expenditure to keep it going until the end of 2023. At its Dec. 6 meeting, the CRA board voted unanimously to discontinue funding of the free park-and-ride service it began

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Two Old Town Tram drivers take a short break on Bridge Street before heading out to provide free rides between Coquina Beach and 25th Street North. subsidizing in November 2020 at a cost of $52,000 per year. LaRose said on Dec. 6 that he would likely continue the tram service with one cart but on Jan. 26 he said that drivers are now renting two carts from him and working solely on tips. “It’s working out well,” he said. “Not only are they giving rides, but they’re also doing some food

delivery. They’ll pick up food at area restaurants and deliver locally.” LaRose has expanded the service area and the tram now runs between Coquina Beach and 25th Street North. “Another thing the drivers are doing is, they’ll do ice and water runs for people at the beach,” he said. “We still need sponsors,” LaRose said. “We have enough advertisers for one, but I’ve still got two going.” LaRose is hopeful that he will be able to continue to provide the free park-and-ride service. “With the new ferry service coming in, people will need a way to get around,” he said. There are three ways to catch a free ride on the tram: Hail a ride if you see one passing by, look for an Old Town Tram passing through local public lots every 7-14 minutes or call for pickup at 941-404-6240. There is limited availability during peak hours.

22 THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

JANUARY 31, 2024

Disclosure vital in 'stigmatized' property sale

ou may think in the land of sunshine, surf and sand there can be nothing defined as stigmatized. Maybe not, since the word can mean different things to different buyers. The National Association of Realtors refers to “stigmatized property” as a property that has been psychologically impacted by an event occurring on the property, even where there was no physical harm to the property. The typical property that is considered stigmatized by events occurring there is one where a crime occurred. A violent crime is a problem for both buyers and sellers. Buyers may not feel comfortable buying the home since they might be uncomfortable living in a property with a violent history. Because of this, sellers may face the possibility of an adjustment to their price or a renovation to remove any reminders of the event. Two infamous stigmatized properties are the house in Fall River, Massachusetts where Lizzie Bordon is said to have murdered her

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER father and stepmother in 1892. The Borden house has been turned into a tourist attraction for those with a macabre interest. And, of course, the most well-known murder home in the country is where actress Sharon Tate and four others were murdered by the Manson Family cult in 1969. The Los Angeles house was ultimately demolished and a new home with a different address was built in its place. A price adjustment can depend on whether the property has any notoriety attached to the violent act, especially if the event was reported in the newspapers with details and police involvement. A death on the property, whether natural or suicide, is

less of an issue to most buyers. Nevertheless, in the real estate market, we’re experiencing a shortage of available properties. Buyers may be willing to overlook many negatives, especially if the pricing is favorable. Another potential problem for sellers is not necessarily a property stigmatized because of a death or violent act, but because it is out of the norm for the region. For example, something quirky about the property, whether it’s construction or decorating that can’t be easily removed. One-of-a-kind architectural properties not compatible with everyday living, actual castles, or castle-like construction, and caves built into the side of a mountain are all examples of stigmatized properties. The problem here is the narrow market for unusual properties and the impact that may have on their value. The National Association of Realtors goes on to say that selling a property with a reputation may be difficult. In Florida, state laws do not oblige a seller to reveal

extraordinary occurrences such as a crime, suicide or unnatural death that occurred on the property or even cases where there are reported hauntings. However, sellers and their agents would be advised to disclose all potential psychological negatives about the property. Hauntings might be a stretch to disclose but certainly, deaths of any kind could come back to haunt the seller if withheld. That said, there are certain disease-related negatives that buyers may want to know about, like AIDS and COVID-19. This is a very gray area and may be considered a protected class and not able to be disclosed. This type of situation requires careful consideration and legal input if you are an owner getting ready to sell a similar property. Like all discussions about disclosure, whether it’s water pipes or death, always best to be cautious and disclose. Grandma’s ghost and nasty sharks in Tampa Bay may be exceptions.

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JANUARY 31, 2024

OBITUARIES Ann Wooten Atwood

Ann Wooten Atwood passed away peacefully on Jan. 17 with her loving family at her bedside at age 93. She was born in Bradenton, Florida on Aug. 28, 1930, the third child of Sam and Jewell Wooten. She had two older sisters, Jane and Alice. Ann attended Ballard Elementary School, Walker Junior High School, and then graduated from Manatee High School in 1949. She was a cheerleader and active in the Original 13 social club. Ann attended Florida State University and graduated in 1953. She was a member of the Chi Omega sorority. One of her formative experiences in college was spending the summer of 1951 working as a waitress at the Old Faithful Lodge at Yellowstone National Park. Following college, Ann worked

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as an elementary school teacher in Palm View, Florida and Pompano Beach, Florida before returning to teach at Ballard Elementary in Bradenton, where she worked alongside her mother, Jewell, who was the cafeteria manager at the time. It was during this time of her life that Ann also traveled overseas to teach school at the Army Air Base in Kaiserslauten, Germany, today known as Ramstein Air Base. In 1959, Ann married Charles W. Atwood, originally from New York City, who had moved to Bradenton in 1952 to work in his family’s citrus business, the Atwood Grapefruit Co. Together, they raised four children - Charles Jr., William, Priscilla and Thomas - along the shores of Warner West Bayou, the site of the family home for nearly 65 years. Throughout her life, Ann was active in church and social organizations around Bradenton. She was a lifelong member of Christ Episcopal Church and served on its vestry, taught 6th-grade girls’ Sunday school class for a decade, was a member of Episcopal Church Women, headed the girls’ junior

altar guild and was a member of the adult altar guild and the Budget Box, the church’s thrift shop. Ann and Charles were among the original supporters of St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, which started in the Christ Church buildings and has since grown into a very successful independent college preparatory school now adjacent to the church. In the school’s earliest days, she served on its board of directors. Ann was very active in local social and service clubs. She was a life member of Entre Nous, the Junior League of Bradenton, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Bradenton Girl’s Club (also on their board of directors), the Collectors Club, and the Mam’Selles Girls Service Club. Ann and Charles were also members of the Bradenton Yacht Club and Bradenton Country Club. Husband, Charles, died in 2003. She is survived by her four children, Charles Jr. (Florence) of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; William (Kathleen) of Bradenton; Priscilla (Ted) of St. Petersburg; and Thomas (Faith) of Charlotte,

THE SUN

North Carolina; and eight grandchildren, Erin, Will, Catherine, Sarah, Katie, Thomas, Sam and Grace. She is also survived by her loving beagle, Hunter. It is hard to sum up a life with just a few words but if one had to choose words to describe Ann and her life, they would be loving and gracious. As a lifelong Bradenton resident, she loved her community, was interested in its continued success and generously supported the people and organizations which made Bradenton a remarkable home. She had a big and loving heart and a supportive word for everyone. She and Charles loved entertaining at their home in Northwest Bradenton, and always looked forward to a week at the Anna Maria Island beaches each summer. Memorial gifts can be made to the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch or VIA Health Partners of Charlotte (Hospice). Card and memories of Ann can be sent to the family in care of Charles Atwood, 605 Glengary Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15215.

24 THE SUN

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JANUARY 31, 2024

AME student wins art contest Anna Maria Elementary School fifth grader Bliss Rippy shows off her artwork on Jan. 19 with Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer after winning the department’s annual student artwork challenge. This year’s theme was “Police Protecting Our Community.” The winning artwork was turned into a window decal that will stay on the school resource officer’s police cruiser for the remainder of the school year. HBPD | SUBMITTED

67$57,1* $7

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JANUARY 31, 2024

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THE SUN

BEACH BEAT

wanted to turn himself in. After running a warrants check on the subject, it was determined he had outstanding warrants for parole violation and a sex offender violation for failure to notify of an address change. The officer confirmed the violations in Manatee County. He was transported to Manatee County Jail.

BRADENTON BEACH 1/18, 6:07 p.m., property damage, 2508 Gulf Drive N. The officer responded in reference to a possible hit-and-run. The officer arrived and made contact with the witness, who stated he was working at a rental property in the area and saw a white SUV traveling northbound on Gulf Drive at approximately 50 mph drive off the road and run over a crosswalk sign. A part that came off the vehicle identified it as a Ford Explorer, but officers were unable to locate the vehicle.

HOLMES BEACH 1/16, 6 p.m., Marchman Act, 5377 Gulf Drive. The officer was dispatched in reference to a man with unknown status. Upon arrival, the man was unresponsive, but woke up as the officer shook his shoulder. EMS checked his vitals, and after several minutes of making contact, it was obvious to the officer and EMS that the man was heavily intoxicated. It was determined the man was unable to care for himself and he was taken into custody under the Marchman Act and transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital.

1/20, 5:28 p.m., warrant arrest, 403 Highland Ave. A male subject arrived at the Bradenton Beach Police Department and spoke with the officer, advising that he had an active warrant and

Marina donates $4,500 to Dream Oaks Camp

SUBMITTED

With funds raised during last year’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade aboard the Anna Maria Princess, Bradenton Beach Marina presented a donation of $4,500 to Bradenton-based Dream Oaks Camp, which provides year-round weekend and summer residential camp sessions for children with varying ability levels and chronic and/or terminal medical conditions. Mia Still and Court Zoller delivered the donation to the camp, where they spent some quality time with the children.

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307 59th Street #B $1,550,000 Laurie Mock 941.232.3665

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PremierSIR.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

26 THE SUN

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JANUARY 31, 2024

Magnolia Inn demolished for hotel project Built in 1935, the former Magnolia Inn was demolished last week.

FROM PAGE 1

BY LESLIE LAKE

SUN CORRESPONDENT | llake@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The third of four buildings has come down to clear the way for a 106-room resort hotel/ restaurant/retail complex at the corner of Bridge Street and Gulf Drive South. On Jan. 26, demolition began on the building at 105 Bridge St., formerly the site of the Magnolia Inn. The preservation of the building, which dates back to 1935, was championed by residents Sue Longacre and Chris Johnson, but city officials responded that the building was not protected. On Dec. 7, developer Shawn Kaleta and hotel co-applicant, former Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jacob Spooner, received city commission approval for the hotel, which will

COMMISSION: City working at full capacity

LESLIE LAKE| SUN

The former Magnolia Inn was demolished on Jan. 26 to clear the way for a 106-room resort hotel/ restaurant/retail complex on Bridge Street and Gulf Drive South. include a 60-seat restaurant, 5,396 square feet of retail space and 154 on-site parking spaces. The project is situated on 1.61 acres and is located at 101, 105 and 117 Bridge St. and 106, 108, 110 and 112 Third St. S. The demolition permit for 105 Bridge St., which was issued by the city on Jan. 22, lists the owner of the property as Bridge Street Resort LLC. On Dec. 11, a permitted

demolition began on 129 Gulf Drive S., the location of the former Joe’s Eats N Sweets. On Jan. 13, 101 Bridge St., built in 1925 and formerly the Freckled Fin, was demolished. Bradenton Beach permit technician Annabre Veal said on Dec. 27 that a demolition permit application for the Fudge Factory, 117 Bridge St., built in 1955, has been submitted.

The rankings were based in part on the 31 questions Morgan and McMullen answered during a candidate forum held at city hall on Jan. 11. After the rankings were announced, Morgan was given the option to serve the remainder of the two-year term vacated by Kingan that expires after the November 2025 elections, or the remainder of the two-year term vacated by Sebring that expires later this year, after the November 2024 elections. While completing the remaining months of Sebring’s vacated term, McMullen can seek election to a full two-year term in November if he so desires. After the appointments were made, City Clerk LeAnne Addy administered the oath of office to the two new commissioners. “It feels good to have a full commission again,” Short said as the new commissioners took their seats on the commission dais and participated in the remainder of the meeting. The reconfigured commission will meet next on Thursday, Feb. 8. In early December, candidate Sharon Wisniewski withdrew her application. In late December, three additional candidates – John Kolojeski, Pat Olesen and Susan Stephen – said they withdrew their applications to avoid being potentially subjected to the State of Florida’s expanded Form 6 financial disclosure requirements that now apply to elected city officials.

JANUARY 31, 2024

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CAPTAINS: Champion clean water

FROM PAGE 1 “In 2016, my 16th year guiding, we came into a water crisis many of the guys in this room remember,” Wittman said. “We had this horrendous red tide. It was so toxic that it was killing sea turtles, grouper, dolphins, tarpon, snook, cobia, redfish, you name it. A 27-foot whale shark washed up on the beach of Sanibel Island.” That was when Wittman decided things had to change. “If we continued down this path, my life as I know it would not exist in the way that I knew it,” he said. “The program that I built for 16 years - my clients would save up all year to come fish with me for a week at a time - would cease to exist.” He talked to fellow fishing guides and teamed up with Capt. Daniel Andrews to co-found Captains for Clean Water. “The more we talked to people, the more we realized there were tens of thousands of people just like myself that were impacted by water quality and were aware of water quality issues, but were not active in driving solutions for those issues because they didn’t have an outlet, they didn’t have a path,” Wittman said. He said that development and a sewage infrastructure that couldn’t keep up with the rate of growth were factors in diminished water quality, but he said the discharges from Lake Okeechobee were what was crippling the fishermen’s way of life. “That red tide shut down everything,” Wittman said. “Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach were at a 90-95% vacancy in March – the peak of the season.” Wittman learned there was a plan put in place in 2000 to fix the areas affected by Lake Okeechobee runoff. “Those same issues that were affecting me in Sanibel were affecting my friends over in Stuart and St. Lucie, in the Florida Bay… all these issues were connected,” he said. “Water from the Everglades systems which would naturally flow from the Kissimmee River all the way to Lake Okeechobee through the river of grass all the way down to the Keys could no longer do so. That system was compartmentalized, it was drained, it was diverted, it was controlled.” Wittman referenced the bi-partisan Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan of 2000. “It’s the largest ecosystem restoration project ever undertaken in the history of the world. Sixty-eight projects would reconnect the flow of

LESLIE LAKE | SUN

Captains for Clean Water co-founder Chris Wittman speaks about water quality at The Center of Anna Maria Island. water to the Everglades,” Wittman said. “There was this plan to fix it and it was estimated it would take 30 years to complete 68 projects. Massive reservoirs, taking down of canals. All these projects would work in concert together to reconnect the hydrological flow back to Florida Bay.” “Who could guess how many of the 68 projects had been completed by 2016?” Wittman asked attendees. “Zero, not a single one.” “There was no political will, there was no passion to change the water management system in Florida,” he said. “The more we looked into this, we figured out there were two drivers, a lack of political will because there was a lack of public pressure and because the lawmakers who were charged with funding these projects were being influenced by the industrial sugar industry, one of the top two political donors in Florida.” “The only way we can combat that is not dollar for dollar or lobbyist for lobbyist,” Wittmann said. “The way we can do it is to create public pressure. If we can get everyone to understand how important their voice was and to give them a mechanism to use their voices. “If we can educate people on these issues, they’re more likely to use their voices and create educational and outreach meetings like this,” Wittman said. “Advocacy creates public pressure, and that is what we can leverage to influence policy.” He encouraged attendees to email their legislators and attend meetings. For more information, visit https:// captainsforcleanwater.org/.

28 THE SUN

SPORTS

JANUARY 31, 2024

Key Royale ladies’ tournament rounds out January JAN. 2 - LOW NET SCORE

JAN. 22 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

Flight A First Place - Jenny Huibers Second Place - Jana Samuels Third Place - Nina McSparren

32 33 34

Flight B First Place - Carol Patterson Second Place - Terry Westby Third Place - Gloria LaDue

34 35 36

First Place - Don Grau

Second Place - Tony Bettis and Greg Jump tied +4

JAN. 23 - LOW NET SCORE

JAN. 4 - SHAMBLE (COUNTING TWO SCORES FROM EACH FOURSOME - PAR 64)

First Place - Jenny Huibers, Larry Pippel, Blake Ress and Quentin Talbert 64, even Second Place - Bob Meleeny, Dale Miller, Ken Nagengast and Terry Tarras tied the team of Mike Cusato, Ron Huibers, Gary Razze and Steve Vasbinder 65, 1 over

JAN. 9 - LOW NET SCORE

First Place - Nina McSparren and Helen Pollock tied

Second Place - Carol Patterson

Third Place - Jenny Huibers and Mary Wilke tied 34 Nina McSparren chipped in on Hole # 9. Mary Wilke chipped-in on Hole # 8.

JAN. 11 - SCRAMBLE

First Place - Brian Comer, Deb Richardson, Chas Smith and Kurt Snouffer 26, 6 under

KEY ROYALE CLUB | SUBMITTED

Left, the Key Royale Club held the annual Ladies’ President's Cup Tournament on Jan. 24. Finishing in first place with 19 points is Andrea Saia. Right, third-place winners in the Key Royale Club Ladies’ President's Cup Tournament are, from left, Linda Dorsey, Mary Wilkie and Pam Lowry. Nina McSparren, right, took second place with Marcia Friesen, not pictured. Second Place - Tim Friesen, Jeff Greiner, Scott Mitchell and Ron Pfaff tied the team of Eric Lawson, Gary Razze, Earl Ritchie and Doug Schafer 30, 2 under

JAN. 15 - MODIFIED STABLEFORD

First Place - Quentin Talbert

Second Place - tie between Nelson Eagle, Eric Lawson, Dave Richardson and Larry Solberg +2

Third Place - tie between Brain Comer, Jeff Greiner, John Kolojeski, Tom Solsoky and Kurt Snouffer +1

JAN. 18 - SCRAMBLE/SHAMBLE COMBO

First Place - Mike Gillie, Hendrik Grobler, Dale Hudson and Larry Pippel 3 under Second Place - Herb Clauhs, A. J. Ellis, Rob Ellis and Bill Koche tied the team of Mike Clements, Fred Miller, Gary Riser and Al Waal 2 under

Flight A First Place - Sue Christenson

Second Place - Marcia Friesen

Third Place tie - Mary Wilke and Roxanne Koche

Flight B First Place - Judy Todd

Second Place - Terry Westby Third Place - Judy Menchek

Birdies - Judy Menchek, hole #8; Linda Dorsey, hole #8. Chip In - Judy Todd, hole #5.

JAN. 25 - SCRAMBLE

First Place - Steve Drumm, Blake Ress and Dave Richardson 26, 6 under Second Place - Larry and Leigh Brattian, Jim Goff and Tom Solosky 27, 5 under Third Place - Dale Miller, Tom Nelson and Joe Tynan 28, 4 under

JANUARY 31, 2024

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Welcome gifts at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel 5 Deputy 9 Some parents 13 Mount near Taormina 14 Passing remark? 15 Nike rival 16 *LOL OMG 19 __ year 20 Actress Collette 21 Fatal flaw of some Greek heroes 22 *CU soon 25 Fuel for some grills 26 Youngest March sister 27 Some barbecue remains 29 Young chap 32 Tesfaye whose stage name is the Weeknd 35 Bandleader's cue 37 Old-fashioned before 38 Classic demonstration,

Answers to 01-24-24 Crossword Puzzle

and a way to describe the relationship between each starred clue and its answer 42 Indifferent review 43 Queues 44 Fission target 45 Hindu title 46 Well-worn 47 Place for a paraffin body wrap 49 __ choy 51 *SRY 57 Tiny slice 60 Can of worms, maybe 61 "Narcos" org. 62 *TMI 65 Not buttoned 66 Actor Rami 67 Send for onboarding 68 Some twins 69 Beltmaking tools 70 Not so much

Down 1 Abandon one's inhibitions 2 Hawke of "The Northman" 3 Clumsy 4 Like a tear-jerker 5 __ acid 6 Ancient Aegean region 7 Not yet settled 8 Make a lasting impression? 9 Green arboreal snake 10 Had to scramble to get out the door, perhaps 11 Calf-length skirt 12 Voices 14 Cream relative 17 Part of a collection 18 Really must, informally 23 "Come no further" 24 Palm fruits 28 Number of suspects in Clue 30 "Alligator Boy" in a 2021 Netflix animated film 31 Judge to be 32 Places for taking notes? 33 __ garden 34 Put on display 35 Accord maker 36 Barinholtz of "History of the World, Part II" 39 Chaps 40 Safflower __ 41 Polite address

47 Former weekend programming block that featured "Clarissa Explains It All" 48 Anti-fur gp. 50 Bakery features

THE SUN

52 Kids' batting game 53 Fertile spots 54 __ Bauer 55 Gets warmer? 56 Chaucer works 57 Nose-in-the-air type

58 Casual gait 59 Oblong tomato 63 "Yup" opposite 64 Bruins' org.

30 THE SUN

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381. ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s. HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS WANTED to assist at our information desk, especially weekends. Great for teens needing volunteer hours (16yrs+). Other assignments available. Please call the Blake Volunteer Office at 941-798-6151. BRIDGE AT ROSER HALL, Friday’s Noon to 3pm. Call 314-324-5921

CARE GIVER LICENSED CARE GIVER. We will take care of you and/ or your loved ones! Please call 941-725-4851.

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts? Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941-565-3931

EMPLOYMENT WE ARE HIRING! The Gitt Team has an opening for PT admin. **must have a FL real estate sales persons license**contact Team@GittSoldIt.com to apply. Serious inquiries only.

Call us today! 941-778-3986 JANUARY 31, 2024

A/C SERVICE TECH, seasoned, able to work well with others. Input is appreciated, hard work is rewarded. Salary negotiable. 40hr + work week. Paid Holidays and vacation. West Coast Air Conditioning & Heating. Call 941-778-9622 A/C INSTALLER. Change outs. Experienced, High work ethical standards a must. Year round work. No layoffs. Benefits. West Coast Air Conditioning & Heating. Call 941-7789622

HOME IMPROVEMENTS RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-725-0073. KERN & GILDER CONSTRUCTION, INC New Homes & Remodel. Design/Build. Since 1968. License # CBC 1261150. Call the Office. 941-7781115 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 20+ years. Call Neil. Cell 941-9621194 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors. Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted. API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience. Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you. Call 941-524-8067. ISLE TILE specializing in Custom Bath/Shower & Backsplash installation. Pressure washing available. Call 941-302-8759 isletileservices.com

GORILLA DRYWALL REPAIR, LLC. 15+ years of experience. Free Estimates. Let’s solve your Drywall problems together. Call 941-286-0607. HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/ On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822. BMF INTERIORS Home repairs and more, No job too small. Please call 786318-8585

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DRIVEWAYS & LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell and Lime rock driveways and scapes. Also River Rock, Sand, Mulch, & Soil. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal. Sweeping, blowing, and weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing. Call Bill Witaszek 941307-9315

LOST & FOUND FOUND BICYCLE that fell off back of car on Cortez Road Call 941-518-1078

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-8095777.

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS" Established 1980 Prompt quality service. Wallpaper installation/ removal. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 DONALD PERKINS ABRACADABRA PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941705-7096 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident. Quality Workmanship. Interior/ Exterior. Minor repairs & carpentry. Free estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 PAINTING / INTERIOR / EXTERIOR: Sarasota Interior Painting. Call or Text Don @ 941900-9398. We are the Best High-End Painting Business! Just ask our AMI Clients! I'm the Owner & the Painter. Free Estimates. Fully Insured Licensed Business. You'll love the results! AMI Chamber of Commerce Member.

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 18 + Years Experience. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657

COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS TOTAL HOME SERVICES CLEANING: Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941-5653931. T & B PRESSURE WASHING Licensed & Insured. Driveways/sidewalks, Roofs, Pool cages, Fences, House (soft wash/ downstream). Call 813638-7636. tandbpressurewashing@yahoo. com Family owned and operated.

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216 LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

NEWLY-RENOVATED CONDO for sale, 2BR/2B, 1639 SF, 6904 10th Ave. W., Village Green on cul-de-sac. 1-car garage, large Florida room, dine-in kitchen plus dining room, large pantry, built-in china cabinet, walk-in closet, lots of storage, laundry room, lush landscaping, pool, walking/running track, 5 miles to AMI, near medical, shopping, preserves, $379,900. Lisa Varano, Wagner Realty, 941-730-9060. FOR SALE - PERICO BAY CLUB Waterfront Beauties! 2 & 3 bedroom models w 2 car garages! Call Today for more info! Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team at Island Real Estate 941-448-5616 FOR SALE - 5400 GULF Completely updated coastal beauty! Gulf Front 55+ neighborhood community! Call Erin Leathem at The Anna Maria Sales Team at Island Real Estate 941-448-5616 FOR SALE PINES TRAILER PARK AMI 4 Church Ave 2 BR trailer 1 min to AMOB PIER/MAIN St. 2 min to beach. $167,500 pic & App Call 402223-8068 SPACIOUS TOWNHOME IN PERICO ISLAND! 3BR/3BA w/pond view. Friendly community offering Tennis, Pickleball, Heated Pool, Fitness Center, Sauna & Social Activities! $449k. Karen Parsons, Good Life Realty 407-2337059

JANUARY 31, 2024

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BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 HOME SERVICES

PAINTING

REAL ESTATE

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee. Call today for details. Ask for Paige DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 513-3821992. ANNUAL 2BR/2BA SINGLE FAMILY, 1 car garage, 1/2 mile to the beach. $2000 monthly 941-778-4800 ANNUAL RENTALS 407 76th B Holmes Beach, FL1BR/1.5BA, unfurnished on canal $3000/mo. 804 S Bay Blvd. Holmes Beach, FL- 3BR/2BA, furnished, Bayfront $5,500/mo. Call Sato Real Estate 941-7787200 ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH duplex. Non smoking, screened lanai, steps to beach and shopping. Luxury vinyl & terrazzo floors. $1850/mo + utilities. Available May 1st. Call 941-274-7321

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455 SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates. Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $900 to $1200 per week redekercondosonami.com Tim 941-704-7525 AMI MONTHLY RENTAL: 2BR/1.5BA Turn-key, elevated deck water view, WIFI 3 minute walk to beach 941-226-4008 Pics @ jamesk95@netzero.com

AMISUN.COM

HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA Cozy cottage, tastefully furnished, close to Beach, tennis courts & boat ramp. Renting weekly/monthly. March 2024 thru December 2024. Call 941-7782919

TRANSPORTATION ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa/St. Pete $80. Sarasota $40. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne. 941-7795095

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JANUARY 31, 2024